GrowHer Program
The GrowHer program will be offered in the following locations for 2026:
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Event Date: Wednesday 3 June 2026
Applications Open: Wednesday 18 March 2026
Applications Close: Monday 18 2026
Announcement Date: Wednesday 20 May 2026
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Event Date: Thursday 18 June 2026
Applications Open: Wednesday 18 March 2026
Applications Close: Monday 18 May 2026
Announcement Date: Wednesday 20 May 2026
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Event Date: Tuesday 23 June 2026
Applications Open: Wednesday 18 March 2026
Applications Close: Monday 18 May 2026
Announcement Date: Wednesday 20 May 2026
Program
Information
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This is a one day program, offered in three locations. Students will attend one program.
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Longreach, Cairns and Sunshine Coast.
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Yes, there will be more opportunities to participate in 2026 and 2027, at even more locations!
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No, everything is covered during the day including how to develop their solutions and pitches.
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No, the program is held at one venue, with guest speakers and mentors coming on site. Where feasible, there will be tours that require students to walk a short distance, but this is dependent on the location.
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The program brings together students, local mentors, and industry AgTech leaders for a dynamic, hands-on day of learning and innovation. Students will hear from AgTech experts and participate in workshops to develop practical skills, including how to create and pitch their ideas effectively. During the Mentor Sprint, teams will engage with all mentors, asking as many questions as possible to expand their knowledge and networks. They will then be introduced to an AgTech challenge, working collaboratively to develop innovative solutions with guidance from their assigned mentor. The day concludes with team pitches and the announcement of the winning team, who will go on to attend an innovation event.
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The full program will be provided to successful applicants. It is anticipated that registration will open at 815 am, with the event commencing at 845 pm. The day will finish at 4 pm.
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The Agri-tech Education and Extension team from CQUniversity Australia are running the program, with their partners AgriBusiness Connect, and industry mentors.
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Yes, the CQU team organising the program and supervising students during the day all have a valid WWCC that can be provided upon request.
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No, the CQU team will supervise students, but you are welcome to attend!
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This is a free program for students, with catering provide. Students will need to make their own way to/from the venue.
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All Queensland, regional female students in years 7-12 are eligible to apply.
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Whilst agriculture is one of the largest sectors in Queensland, only 30% of the workforce are females. Females are largely underrepresented in agriculture, and we hope to change this trend, by inspiring the next generation of young women to consider a future in AgTech.
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The program is ideal for students interested in any of the following topics: agriculture, technology, innovation, problem-solving, STEM, business, or entrepreneurship.
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No, prior agricultural knowledge or experience is not required. Students will explore how technology and innovation are transforming agriculture and discover the skills needed to tackle future industry challenges.
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Students can apply individually or teachers can nominate a team of 3-4 students (or multiple teams).
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Yes, you can nominate as many teams as you like, providing they meet the criteria of being a Queensland, regional female students in years 7-12.
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It is anticipated that the survey could take you up to 20 mins to complete. If you are a teacher, questions include you and your student's details, and agreement to a list of statements.
Students are required to write a Statement of Intent (100-500 words) or upload a 1-min video, outlining their motivations for applying to participate.
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Yes, there is a copy of the application when you click “Apply here”
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Applications Close: Monday 18 2026
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Students will be notified on Wednesday 20 May 2026.
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Students will be contacted in the subsequent years to complete a short survey.
The winning team from each of the programs (Longreach, Cairns and Sunshine Coast) will represent GrowHer at an innovation event later in the year. There will be no cost to the winning teams to attend the innovation event, and there will be assistance with travel arrangements. Details of the innovation event will be discussed with the winning team/s, their teachers and guardians.
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Yes! Please just check the locations offered in 2026 to ensure they are suitable.